Patel had posted $5,000 cash bond in March after being arrested following a single-vehicle crash Nov. 26 on Route 78 southwest of Toulon.

She has been charged with two counts of felony DUI and two misdemeanor charges of child endangerment.

A motion to modify the terms of Patel’s bond were recently filed asking to allow her to leave Illinois for approximately three weeks. Vaupel said that prior to the grand jury indictment Patel was in the process of relocating from Texas to Galva where she and her husband recently took over operation of the local grocery store.

“Mrs. Patel has absolutely no prior criminal history and was in the process of putting down roots in the community,” said Vaupel.

Patel’s oldest daughter, a high school senior, had remained in Texas to complete her education.

Also included in the motion was a request to return Patel’s driver’s license which is currently being by the Stark County Sheriff’s Office. Vaupel argued that Patel planned to fly to Texas and needed the proof of identification to navigate airport security.

Stark County State’s Attorney Jim Owens said the felony charges were classified as violent crimes and if the request were to be allowed, Patel should be monitored on a daily basis by Stark County authorities in addition to a substantial amount set on a recognizance bond.

“This is really difficult. I am very sympathetic to (attending) the graduation and that makes this a tough call,“ said Judge Keith.

“I hope I’m not making a mistake Mrs. Patel. By allowing you to go I’m taking a chance on you,” the judge continued.

The ruling stipulated a $100,000 personal recognizance bond along with daily contact by the defendant with Stark County Court Services and contact information on where she would be staying.

Patel waived her right to extradition from Texas is she should fail to return.

The judge also ordered her to obtain another form of identification and refused to release Patel’s driver’s license.

Page 2 of 2 - In a motion filed by the state, Patel was ordered to provide a saliva sample for DNA testing in the case.

A conference in the case is scheduled June 11 when a new jury trial date will be set. All scheduled dates were vacated last month when the request for a new judge.